Open Mic

One local man has devoted his career as well as his retirement to serving the students of St. Edward’s University.  Because of this selfless act, Querencia at Barton Creek senior living community is recognizing Brother Romard Barthel, of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, as the third recipient of the 2010 Querencia Salute to Seniors Award.  Brother William Nick, religious director of the Brothers’ Community at St. Edward’s University, nominated Barthel for the honor.

“Brother Romard retired in 2005, but continues to be available to students and faculty as a tutor and mentor,” said Nick.  “In addition, Brother Romard is always available to alumni who visit the campus. At age 86, he is still a presence and making a difference at St. Edward’s and the Austin community.”

The Querencia Salute to Seniors Award is presented quarterly to honor an individual who is making a difference in their community.  Qualified nominees are active adults age 62 and above who volunteer their time and talents to their communities, and who also exemplify leadership, spirit, and citizenship.

“Brother Romard has devoted his life to the students at St. Edward’s University even after retiring five years ago” said Leslie Dominguez, director of sales and marketing of Querencia at Barton Creek.  “His devotion to students and to serving others is truly an inspiration.”

Barthel first came to Austin in 1947 to pursue his doctorate studies. The first class he taught was an introductory math course, in preparation to later teach at St. Edward’s. He received a doctorate from the University of Texas in 1951, and upon graduation returned to St. Edward’s to teach physics and math.

“My life has been devoted to students and I really love it,” said Barthel. “It’s a matter of sometimes they need someone for personal support and to encourage them and I’m good at that.  I don’t mind that it’s non-paying, I just love to teach and I love being with young people.”

Barthel has been a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross, South-West Province for 66 years and spent 40 of those as a professor of physics and mathematics at St. Edward’s University. He currently resides in St. Joseph’s Hall on the campus of St. Edward’s.

St. Edward’s University is a diverse, nationally recognized liberal arts institution overlooking downtown Austin, Texas. Founded in 1885 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, the university emphasizes creative and critical thinking, social justice and ethical practice.

ABOUT QUERENCIA AT BARTON CREEK

Querencia at Barton Creek is a premier life care retirement resort located at Barton Creek Boulevard and Chalk Knoll Drive in Austin, Texas, less than a mile from Barton Creek Resort & Club.  The 400,000-square-foot retirement resort features 167 independent living residences, including 10 villas, on 38 acres.  Residences are available in one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans ranging in size from 830 square feet to more than 2,200 square feet.  The Plaza at Querencia features assisted living apartment homes in one- and two-bedroom designs, memory support suites, private nursing rooms for long-term care, and Medicare-certified private suites for short-term rehabilitation.

Querencia at Barton Creek is 501(c)3 not-for-profit retirement community sponsored by Senior Quality Lifestyles Corporation (SQLC), a Texas-based nonprofit organization that sponsors sister communities Edgemere in Dallas, The Buckingham in Houston, Mirador under construction in Corpus Christi, and The Stayton at Museum Way under construction in Fort Worth.  For information, visit www.QuerenciaBartonCreek.com, or call (512) 410-2429.